Entering a new chapter and starting a post-secondary program can be scary and exciting all at once but for some students, financial barriers can make this transition more difficult. Walter and Maria Schroeder and their Schroeder Foundation are helping to eliminate that barrier for some students, so they don’t have to worry about finances as they begin their post-secondary education journeys. Instead, allowing them to focus on what is most important when entering post-secondary education, their learning.

The Schroeder Foundation’s most recent gift of $1.25 million comes on the heels of a $15 million donation, the largest ever received by RRC Polytech, announced just three months prior – now bringing the Schroeder Foundation’s total contribution to RRC Polytech to $18.2 million. Walter and Maria, born Winnipeggers, have a place in their hearts for Manitoba students. Their commitment is changing the lives of their “Schroeder Students” who receive their scholarships.

“Walter and Maria are making a tremendous impact for students,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “This incredible donation is yet another example of how the Schroeders are easing the way for students in their post-secondary education journeys. The lives of more than 200 students have already been changed thanks to their generosity and more will be changed in the years ahead. They are setting an inspiring example of the impact that philanthropy can have –whether it’s investing in state-of-the-art spaces and programs or eliminating financial barriers to higher learning.”

The existing Schroeder Scholarship fund was established in 2018 to help eliminate financial barriers to education for students. To date, the Schroeder Scholarship fund has supported 213 students from Winnipeg high schools, and this most recent gift will continue to support even more students over the next five years.

“It’s important to us to support students who might need financial support to complete their education,” said Walter Schroeder. “We know that not everyone can afford to attend post-secondary education, but we don’t believe that should be a barrier, so we created and continue to fund Schroeder Scholarships to give students at RRC Polytech the opportunity to get ahead in a career path of their choice without having to think about how they are going to be able to afford it.”

Veronica Ade is a Schroder Student in her second year of the Business Administration program – a path that she hopes will help her open a storefront for her hair braiding business after graduation. She’s been braiding hair since she moved to Canada as a refugee in 2018 and runs the business out of her home but dreams of having her own store and employees.

“When I found out about the scholarship I couldn’t believe it – I’m not sure I ever would have been able to go to school without it,” says Veronica. “I couldn’t imagine having to pay school fees while also paying rent. I want to thank the Schroeder Foundation for the opportunity, I really don’t know how to thank them enough. I hope they can continue supporting more students like me.”

Walter and Maria Schroeder were awarded in 2023 with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award, and with their continued support of students pursuing higher education, it is not hard to see why. As the largest donor of full-ride scholarships at RRC Polytech the Schroeders are proving their steadfast dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.

The Schroeder Scholarship fund covers the full tuition costs of nearly all programs at RRC Polytech for the recipients, as well as textbooks and access to wraparound supports like the transition to college program offered by the college.

Charles Panggat is a Schroeder Scholarship recipient and graduated from the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program in 2023. Since graduating Charles has worked in various kitchen environments – now working as a sous chef at a local Filipino restaurant where he is able to take his classic culinary training and apply it to foods from his own culture.

“Getting the scholarship really helped me focus on actually going to school and doing the best I could without having to worry about my financial situation,” said Charles. “I was able to enter my career right away without debt. Getting this support from the Schroeder Foundation really put my mind at ease and that was the biggest thing.”

He says the supports available to him as a Schroeder Student were a huge help as he adjusted to college life – especially getting started in a program shortly after the pandemic. Since graduating Charles now returns to support the summer orientation for other Schroeder Students, helping them understand what the college experience is like and answering any questions they might have.

The Schroeder Foundation’s donations are in support RRC Polytech’s comprehensive campaign In Front of What’s Ahead, the College’s largest fundraising campaign ever with the aim of transforming learning and research spaces, amplifying RRC Polytech’s impact, and enhancing the student experience.  

Walter and Maria Schroeder are two incredibly strong members of a community that supports students at RRC Polytech. They had previously donated $2 million towards the Schroeder Scholarships and this $1.25 million top-up to the fund will continue to impact even more students in the coming years – helping them reach for their dream careers just like Veronica and Charles.

As 2024 draws to a close, we want to take this opportunity to THANK YOU for your wonderful support of RRC Polytech through our In Front of What’s Ahead comprehensive campaign – the largest fundraising campaign in the College’s history.

In November 2021, we launched this campaign to fuel our five-year strategic plan with the goals of enhancing student life, transforming our spaces, and amplifying our impact.

Thanks to supporters like you, our In Front of What’s Ahead comprehensive campaign has now raised $87,876,615 and is poised to be a historic success that shapes the lives of our students, and the future of our province, for the better.

Through your investment and generosity, these funds are directly impacting thousands of RRC Polytech learners and enabling the College to raise the bar on the exceptional education it delivers every day. Since launching our campaign, we’ve been the grateful recipient of many gifts worth celebrating. Here are just a few highlights:

• With a transformational gift of $15 million from Walter and Maria Schroeder, RRC Polytech’s new Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts launched this past September. The Schroeder Institute paves the way for continued growth and opportunity in the creative arts for RRC Polytech, its students, and the province of Manitoba.

• Last summer, the Price Family Foundation provided a leadership gift of $10 million to spearhead the Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics, which will allow RRC Polytech to bridge critical skills and labour gaps in the manufacturing sector.

• As a first-time donor to the RRC Polytech, The Canerector Foundation is making a big impact for skilled trades in Manitoba through their generous $500,000 gift to the College. This donation supports the creation of the Canerector Foundation Scholarship in Skilled Trades and funds the Girls Exploring Trades and Technology (GETT) Camp over the next five years.

• Johnston Group was inspired to invest $250,000 in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, the College’s downtown hub for technology, collaboration and community. Their donation goes towards the programs and spaces that foster the next generation of innovators and not only supports RRC Polytech but is a direct investment in downtown Winnipeg and the community the College is proud to continue building there.

We are humbled and inspired by our supporters — a broad range of individuals, businesses (large and small), foundations, staff and alumni. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students. To learn more about our In Front of What’s Ahead comprehensive campaign, please go to the Donor Community section of RRC Polytech’s website.

Wishing you a warm and wonderful holiday season.

With gratitude,

David Petis
Executive Director, Advancement
RRC Polytech

“Your generosity and support have given me the opportunity to continue my education and pursue my dreams, and I cannot thank you enough.”

–  Ning, Manufacturing CAD Student

“I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support. Your contribution has made an impact on my academic journey, allowing me to pursue my passions and excel in my studies.”

– Benjamin, Business Information Technology Student

The Flynn Group of Companies has made a transformative investment in future trades professionals through a $200,000 donation to RRC Polytech’s School of Skilled Trades and Technology. Flynn’s first major gift to the College, the donation will support bursaries and updated learning spaces to provide students with a closer connection to the industry as they journey from classroom to career.

“For Flynn, this donation is a way of honouring our roots while investing in the future of skilled trades in Manitoba,” says Dave Sterling, Flynn’s Regional Operations Manager.  “Though we’ve grown into a multinational company, we’ve always remembered where we started. Giving back to the community that supported us and fostering the talent that will shape our industry and economy is at the core of our mission.”

As a leading North American building envelope contractor, Flynn operates over 35 branches in Canada and the U.S., shaping skylines and communities. The company’s commitment to RRC Polytech goes beyond financial support: Flynn also serves on an industry advisory committee, ensuring curriculum relevance.

“Flynn’s generous donation will significantly impact students and programs across the School of Skilled Trades and Technology,” says Derek Kochenash, Dean of the School.

 “The funds will support equipment, infrastructure, and programming in key trades like roofing, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical – fields that align closely with Flynn’s needs. Partnerships like these are the ‘secret sauce’ of RRC Polytech, enabling us to provide modern, applied learning experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges. With Flynn’s support, we can continue to produce the skilled workforce that not only drives their success but also strengthens our entire community.”

Flynn’s connection to RRC Polytech isn’t just institutional – it’s personal. Over 80% of Flynn’s workforce comprises RRC alumni, including new President and CEO Dan Sims. A 2008 RRC grad who began his Flynn journey as a drafting technician, Sims credits the College with laying the foundation for his career. “RRC gave me the skills, confidence, and problem-solving mindset to excel in this industry,” says Sims. “Now, as part of Flynn’s leadership, I’m thrilled to give back to the place that started it all.”

Flynn’s donation funds a redesigned classroom in RRC Polytech’s A Building, transforming it into a versatile space for lectures and hands-on activities. Accommodating 40 students, the room will include flexible seating and whiteboards for collaborative learning.

Tammy Harper, who oversees Civil Engineering and Construction programs at RRC Polytech, sees this classroom upgrade as a powerful message to students. “It tells them that their chosen profession is valued and respected by leaders in the industry.”

This investment also includes bursaries to ease financial pressure. “We want students focused on their education, not on how they’ll pay for it,” Sterling explains. “Trades are essential, in demand, and we’re committed to seeing RRC graduates enter the workforce ready to make an immediate impact.”

Flynn’s commitment to RRC Polytech also includes guest lectures and workshops led by Flynn professionals. These sessions will cover key industry topics like quality control in manufacturing and sustainable building practices, bridging theory and practical application to give students a well-rounded, industry-ready education.

“For us, it’s about more than just funding,” adds Sterling. “By bringing our experts into the classroom, we’re sharing knowledge that encourages continuous learning and excellence—values we hope resonate with these students long after they graduate. Skilled trades are the backbone of our economy, and we want students to feel the pride and purpose in that.”

On October 11, thanks to a generous sponsorship from IG Wealth Management, Indigenous high school students had the opportunity to participate in RRC Polytech’s ACE IT Camp at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, where they learned how they could apply an education in information technology into future careers.

“The students loved the hands-on activities and the chance to be on campus. It was very valuable for them to hear from current students and staff involved in the program – I think it opened their minds to the variety of IT options across all fields of work and the experience showed them the versatility that a career in IT provides,” said Hailey Skrumeda, teacher, Southeast Collegiate.

Read the full story on the Indigenous Education blog.

On the first Tuesday after Black Friday, millions of people around the world support the global movement that is GivingTuesday. It first began in 2012 and has become one of the biggest fundraising days of the year driven by the generosity of people. GivingTuesday 2024 falls today, December 3.

RRC Polytech is the fortunate recipient of incredible generosity from its staff, students and extended community. One example of this is Greg Grande, an electrician and a member of the Facility Management team at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus.

When Greg Grande installed a new EV charging station at the RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame campus this fall, he did it with one goal in mind: honouring his father Angelo’s spirit of generosity and passion for innovation.

Growing up, Greg remembers his dad as a man who was always fixing, building, and teaching. Angelo was the type who greeted each day with a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality and a keen eye for how things worked. His enthusiasm for new technologies left a deep impression on Greg.

“He was always into the next big thing, sometimes before the rest of us even knew about it,” says Greg. “Our house was always filled with the latest gadgets.”

Angelo’s expertise was boundless. As a concrete worker, plumber, electrician, and carpenter, he spent a lifetime mastering his trades and sharing his knowledge with anyone who needed a hand – be it a young apprentice or a neighbour struggling to build a backyard smokehouse.

To those who knew him, he was affectionately called “Maestro Angelo,” a nod not only to his skill but to his deep commitment to community service. Angelo’s devotion ran so deep that the City of Winnipeg even named a street after him – ‘Angelo Grande Bocce Way’. The street name commemorates how he taught people from all walks of life to play the game that meant so much to him, forging a stronger community in the process.

When Angelo passed away in 2021 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s, Greg found himself searching for a meaningful way to continue his dad’s legacy. It wasn’t until he bought an electric vehicle that the idea struck him: donating a charging station to RRC Polytech, where he’s worked for nearly 25 years, would honour both his father’s memory and passion for innovation “while giving back to a place that’s given so much to me.”

The new charging station aligns with RRC Polytech’s commitment to environmental responsibility, offering students and staff an accessible way to support sustainable practices. Located in M Building, it’s part of the College’s larger efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and encourage eco-friendly choices within the campus community.

Soon, a plaque in Angelo’s memory will be placed at the charging station, serving as a tangible reminder of the Grande family’s belief in giving back. “I don’t want his name to be forgotten,” says Greg, his voice full of emotion. “Maestro Angelo” may have been a term of respect, but to Greg, it’s also a call to action – a reminder to lift others up and leave things a little better than you found them.

For Greg, this gift is only the beginning. “My dad always said, if you’re going to give back, give back double.” He hopes this tribute will inspire others at RRC Polytech to find their own ways to make a difference – just as Angelo would have wanted.

Learn more about the ways you can support RRC Polytech.

Walking through the doors of Manitou a bi Bii daziigae at RRC Polytech, you’re immediately struck by the innovative energy that permeates the building. The light streaming through the glass ceiling not only illuminates the space but also symbolizes the bright future in programming and technology that unfolds here. When the team at Johnston Group entered, they felt that same spark — an environment where cutting-edge programming is not just taught but lived. This inspired them to invest $250,000 towards the programs and spaces that foster the next generation of innovators.

“The community that RRC Polytech has created inspires students to not only pursue a career path that is meaningful to them, but also to make a difference in their own communities,” said Dave Angus, President, Johnston Group. “Johnston Group holds these same values and together we want to be able to create a thriving community that inspires future generations.”

The students walking between the classrooms come from diverse backgrounds and each has a unique story to share. For some, this is their first time in Canada, and they are learning a new language and figuring out what they want to do next. Some are working to become the video game programmer they have been dreaming of since childhood. Others are the first of their family to leave their community and attend college. Each of these people belong at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae and the space was created with them in mind.

“Manitou a bi Bii daziigae is located in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, designed as a hub for technology, collaboration and community – creating more opportunities for a connected learning experience,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Johnston Group’s investment in this space – in this vision for post-secondary education – provides even more opportunities for students to grow and innovate. This gift not only supports RRC Polytech, but it is a direct investment into downtown Winnipeg and the community we are proud to continue building there.”

Johnston Group has invested $250,000 to support Manitou a bi Bii daziigae along with the programs and spaces held within. This includes: the Centre for Newcomer Integration – where over 2,500 students build their English language skills, cultural communication, and academic skills to further their education, training and employment goals, The ACE Project Space – an interactive workspace, where students, entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations and corporations collaborate to bring ideas to life,  and, the School of Indigenous Education – which includes the Social Innovation and Community Development program, where students learn to transform their values and passions into ventures and become agents of change in communities experiencing barriers to development.

“The students that graduate from these programs make a difference in our communities and we want to support them in their journey,” added Angus. “When we put people first, we can all work and live in thriving communities and being a part of RRC Polytech does exactly that.”

In recognition of this investment, a workroom on the first level of Manitou a bi Bii daziigae has been named after Johnston Group. Workrooms are multi-use spaces that all students, staff and community members can access, providing a safe space to come together to work, research and share ideas.

“Partnering with organizations that believe in the work we’re doing is a part of our strategic plan and Johnston Group is one of these partners,” said Meier. “For years Johnston Group has supported RRC Polytech students with co-op placements and Work-Integrated Learning opportunities as well as hiring many graduates, and today’s gift is just one more way we are expanding this partnership. We are grateful to Johnston Group for their continued partnership and support.”

Johnston Group administers group health and dental benefits, critical illness, disability and life insurance to more than 30,000 small businesses, 300 larger companies and 350 Indigenous organizations across Canada. Find more info at https://johnstongroup.ca/.

Manitou a bi Bii daziigae is a part of RRC Polytech’s Exchange District Campus in downtown Winnipeg and the programs house in the space have been developed in consultation with Manitoba’s fastest-growing industries including business, creative arts and IT. Find more info at https://www.rrc.ca/edc/manitou-a-bi-bii-daziigae/.

Schroeder is a name that is synonymous with education in Manitoba. Walter and Maria Schroeder, born Winnipeggers and Manitobans, have formed their legacy around ensuring Manitoba students are set for success.

Today their legacy of giving is given an entirely new meaning – the Schroeder Foundation’s transformational gift of $15 million – the largest in RRC Polytech’s history – paves the way to continued growth and opportunity with the creation of a new prairie-based media arts hub: the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts (the Schroeder Institute).

This gift brings opportunity for RRC Polytech and its students, and for the creative sectors that thrive in the heart of Canada. For more than 70 years, creative thinkers explored ideas and sharpened their skills at RRC Polytech, and this gift re-energizes what is possible – enhancing programs, expanding innovation opportunities, and strengthening ties to industry.

Manitoba is a flourishing creative engine proving it is competitive across the prairies, the country, and beyond. Local training and talent are crucial to the success of the businesses that choose to operate here, and that is where RRC Polytech, and the Schroeder Institute, come in.  

“RRC Polytech and the Schroeder Foundation have a shared vision for the future and what we can make possible through education, collaboration, and research,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO RRC Polytech. “The Schroeder Foundation’s decision to make this tremendous investment in RRC Polytech reflects that there are visionaries invested in our community who recognize the value of what we are doing here to support students on their way into careers in creative industries. This gift today will enable us to create so many more opportunities for Manitobans and our creative industries together.”

This partnership is a representation of the movie-worthy story arc that the Schroeder family and RRC Polytech share – a history of humble beginnings leading to a path of advancing technology and industry in Canada and beyond. The Schroeder family and their foundation share the commitment to creating opportunity in Manitoba that RRC Polytech holds as a guiding principle.

RRC Polytech began as a small community college, and after almost a century of continuous growth and innovation, it is now a leader in producing job-ready graduates. This gift, and the creation of the Schroeder Institute, further cements RRC Polytech as a trusted partner that industry can rely on to produce job-ready grads and support existing employees with opportunities to expand their skills.

The Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts is where students push the limits of their skills and build their networks and industry connections. They are taught by instructors with a wealth of industry experience who support them as they learn the skills necessary to break into a career in their chosen field.  

Developed with a 14-person advisory committee deeply entrenched in creative industries to guide programming, the Schroeder Institute always has an edge on what the industry needs. 

The Schroeder Institute launches today with 12 core programs, but continues to enhance its offerings. Two new programs – Animation and Entertainment Production Management – launches in the fall of 2025 and industry informed micro-credential programs designed for current professionals to increase their skillsets will soon be added.

The Schroeder Foundation is an ongoing partner of RRC Polytech supporting student success, such as providing scholarships for their “Schroeder Students.” Now, this latest, and largest, investment of $15 million to ensure top creative arts programming, is a continuation of that support and legacy of giving in the spirit of furthering education.

“Maria and I grew up in Manitoba and will always be Winnipeggers. We believe in the work that RRC Polytech is doing to support students and the industries they aspire to be a part of,” said Walter Schroeder.

“We have lofty goals for the Institute. We believe it can attract creative sector industry partners – and students – from across Canada and around the world to Manitoba and Winnipeg, where they will discover the advantages of working, studying, and living here. And we believe the Institute can create pathways for secondary learners – like the students we support through Sisler’s CREATE program – to accelerate their careers in their home province. We can’t wait to see these relationships grow with other Winnipeg high schools and we are excited to support the Institute.” 

The Schroeder Institute will create a pipeline of newly skilled employees, foster deeper collaboration with industry and for the first time, RRC Polytech is creating an applied research program to foster innovation in emerging technologies in creative sectors.  The College’s ACE Project Space, alongside the Research Partnerships and Innovation team, will undertake projects aimed at establishing Canada’s leadership in animation, virtual production studios, and user-experience testing.

Areas of applied research opportunity within the Schroeder Institute are diverse and immense, from leveraging AI in media creation, exploring how to best utilize immersive technologies like virtual or augmented reality in productions, and how to reduce the carbon footprint of production.

Headquartered in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, and located in the heart of the Exchange District, the Schroeder Institute gives students direct access to the creative core of Winnipeg, while they learn in state-of-the-art facilities with top industry-grade equipment and tools.

The Schroeder family has long impacted Manitobans seeking higher education and today, that continues full speed ahead with the launch of the Schroeder Institute. Manitobans for many years to come will remember where they started their careers, and the name Schroeder will forever be a part of their stories.

“This gift from Walter and Maria through the Schroeder Foundation towards RRC Polytech’s comprehensive campaign “In Front of What’s Ahead,” is a rare example of truly transformational philanthropy that will uplift our community, industry partners, and students for generations to come,” said David Petis, Executive Director, Advancement, RRC Polytech. “It demonstrates what is possible with the support of community partners who believe in the value of a Polytechnic education and providing opportunities for young people looking to break into industries they are passionate about.” 

Learn more about the Schroeder Institute and how it will create opportunities for many students in the years ahead.

On July 2, Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) began its Youth Camps for 2024 welcoming 160 campers, the most campers in RRC Polytech’s history, to its Notre Dame Campus. Thanks to the support of the Carolyn Sifton Foundation (the Foundation), 100 of those campers are attending at no cost.

“In keeping with Carolyn Sifton’s concern for the welfare of children, the Foundation supports projects in education, social services, and art and culture designed to assist youth in developing to their fullest potential,” said Micah Sifton-LaLeune, Board Member of the Foundation.

“There is a great benefit to providing access to the summer camps and programs offered by RRC Polytech to allow children to learn new skills, develop their interests and expand their creativity. We look forward to seeing how this donation makes a positive impact on Winnipeg children and their families, enabling them to have a joyful summer filled with learning and exploration.”

The Foundation’s $40,000 donation to RRC Polytech’s In Front of What’s Ahead Comprehensive Campaign is supporting the College’s Youth Camps and made up to 100 spots available this year for campers who may not otherwise have been able to attend. Donations like this one can open doors and provide opportunities for young people, giving them the chance to learn in environments they would not normally have access to.

“These camps make learning fun and give campers a memorable experience that they can look back on when they are thinking about their future education and career. It is important to us that these camps are accessible to as many young people as possible,” said David Petis, Executive Director, Advancement, RRC Polytech. “The Carolyn Sifton Foundation is helping that goal be a reality this year by providing funding for more than two thirds of our campers. We are grateful that so many kids can take part this year thanks to the support of the Foundation and the vision of Carolyn Sifton.”

This year the College is offering seven camps, the most ever offered on campus, six of which have spots supported by the Carolyn Sifton Foundation. The camps being supported by the Foundation this year include Budding Business Leaders, Design Your Dream Room, Indigenous Cultural Exploration, Out and About Photography, Sweet Treats Baking Camp, and Wheels in Motion.

The camp offerings continue to diversify and grow in response to labour market trends and thanks to the support of donors like the Carolyn Sifton Foundation. Whether engaging with Indigenous culture, constructing a valve cover racer, exploring trades and technology, or playing classic camp games, campers have had a fun-filled experience at RRC Polytech’s youth summer camps this year.

The 2024 camps are nearly complete, but youth initiatives are available throughout the year. View more youth opportunities available on RRC Polytech campuses.

The Canerector Foundation (the Foundation) is making a big impact for skilled trades in Manitoba with the recent announcement of a $500,000 gift to Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech).

The gift supports the creation of the Canerector Foundation Scholarship in the Skilled Trades and funds the Girls Exploring Trades and Technology (GETT) Camp. The donation will be distributed over the next five years to provide continued support to students pursuing careers in skilled trades.

Amanda Hawkins, Director of the Foundation, says that they aim to support communities across Canada, including Manitoba and Winnipeg where Canerector has three businesses. This is the Foundation’s first gift to RRC Polytech, but it has a history of supporting students in skilled trades since its inception in 2019.

“I lived in Winnipeg while working with one of our companies in 2011, and still love the community there,” said Hawkins. “We are happy to see RRC Polytech’s focus on strategic workforce development and are excited to be a part of it.”

The Canerector Foundation Scholarship in the Skilled Trades supports 14 diploma and certificate programs in the School of Skilled Trades and Technologies. Recipients are selected based on their community involvement and engagement in mentorship activities. The first round of scholarships is scheduled to be awarded in the fall of 2024 and will support up to 27 recipients annually.

The Foundation also committed a portion of this gift to support the GETT Camp. This will give young women and girls between the ages of 12 and 14 first-hand experience with a variety of skilled trades at no cost to them or their families. This year’s camp is already full, and the Canerector Foundation’s support ensures this camp will continue to provide learning opportunities for young women in Manitoba for years to come.

Hawkins says exposing students to practical, valuable careers at a young age is important. She was first introduced to engineering during a presentation in her grade 5 classroom and remembers the impact it had on her. She appreciates how our program creates awareness of trades and technology and hopes that it will inspire many young people. 

“We’ve been working to increase representation in the trades by creating more opportunities for women and equity deserving groups who might not have considered a career in the trades,” said Derek Kochenash, Dean of the School of Skilled Trades and Technology. “This age is an important time for girls because they begin to make course decisions that affect future career choices. The Canerector Foundation’s support of the GETT Camp will help provide an environment where these young women can get inspired and curious about skilled trades and open to the idea of having a career in one.”

Todd Thompson, Carpentry instructor at RRC Polytech, shared his daughter and niece took part in the camp in 2022 and says it was nice to introduce them to various trades in a girls-only environment.

“All the instructors did such a good job showcasing their trades and opening the students’ eyes to the possibility of the trades as a career,” said Thompson.

Todd’s daughter Anna says, “I had so much fun meeting new people and making friends. I loved trying the different trades. The GETT camp gave me so many new and fun experiences!”

The GETT Camp has been so successful that shortly after it was announced for 2024 all the spots were filled. The Camp will take place in July 2024 at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame campus.

The Canerector Foundation was established just five years ago and has invested in skilled trades education since the beginning.

“Skilled trades are the backbone of our economy and provide a lot of value to our communities,” said Hawkins. “Canerector was founded and built by tradespeople and hopes to bring attention to the wide variety of careers that begin with a skilled trades education. This gift is also our way of giving back to the communities that have supported us over our 75+ year history.”

RRC Polytech is proud to celebrate this half million-dollar gift and recognize the Canerector Foundation for its contribution and the impact it has for students, and the skilled trades industry in Manitoba, now and in the future.

Learn more about the GETT camps: Girls Exploring Trades and Technology : Red River College Polytechnic: Youth Initiatives (rrc.ca)

Learn more about the Canerector Foundation awards: Awards, bursaries, and scholarships :: RRC Polytech Program & Course Catalogue

This was the third year of RRC Polytech’s Snow Me the Money! contest where staff and students were asked to think about the impacts of climate change while partaking in a classic winter activity in Manitoba: making snow sculptures.

Taking care of our planet and being sustainable are core values of RRC Polytech. So much so that back in November RRC Polytech became the first post-secondary in Manitoba to sign the SDG Accord, committing to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – including urgent calls to action to tackle climate change across the globe.

A variety of initiatives are underway at RRC Polytech – from composting and print reduction, to conducting waste and transportation audits, and building a campus environment that embodies sustainable design – ensuring that a commitment to sustainability is at the forefront of everything that happens at RRC Polytech. This includes instilling these same values in the thousands of students across our campuses so they too can be sustainability-minded when they enter the workforce.

One way of inspiring these values outside of the classroom is with opportunities like the Snow Me the Money! contest, which was created in 2021 by Maria den Oudsten, a generous member of our donor community.

“Seeing students and staff come together to have fun in the snow while considering the importance of how we treat our planet is really amazing,” said Maria at the contest’s wrap-up celebration. “Climate change is having an impact even right here in Winnipeg and Manitoba. Our temperatures from summer to winter are drastically changing and these conditions over the long-term are leading to more extreme weather events like the drought conditions, floods and fires we’ve seen in recent years. These are serious impacts of climate change, and this is why we must take action now.”

The Snow building contest began as a passion project for Maria as a climate change awareness campaign showing the importance of preserving one of her most cherished winter activities – building snow people. The contest is an opportunity for classmates and colleagues to work together to help raise climate change awareness.

“I was really inspired by how Maria really loves winter and why she started this contest,” said Claire Tuazon, first year Social Innovation and Community Development student. “I hope we have more events where you get to appreciate the weather that we have here in Winnipeg.”

There was almost no snow on the ground when the call-out for snow sculpting teams to register began at the end of February. It served as a reminder that playing in the snow, even in a Winnipeg winter, might look different due to climate change.

With a huge snow fall the week of the contest, 20 teams set out to create incredible snow sculptures between March 4-7, 2024. Snow creations were lined up along the Jan den Oudsten Vehicle Research Technology Centre on Route 90 and other spots at the Notre Dame Campus as well as Stevenson Southport and the Steinbach Regional Campus.

“These sculptures serve as a visual reminder to celebrate winter and how our daily actions make a global impact,” said Fred Meier, president and CEO of RRC Polytech, at the wrap-up celebration. “As Manitobans, we’re bonded by the ability to make the most of the winter conditions we face, and this contest proudly demonstrated collaboration and teamwork. Elements that are critical to the success RRC Polytech has in training the workforce of today and tomorrow, but it also showcased that we care about the planet and helped to inspire us to build a better future.”

Maria and her late husband Jan den Oudsten, a pioneer and inventor in transit technology, presented RRC Polytech with a donation of $1.5 million in 2019 to support students and researchers in Manitoba’s heavy vehicle sector.

Over 50 participants were treated to soup, chili, and refreshments as a part of the wrap-up lunch, donated by Maria den Oudsten to celebrate everyone taking time out of their busy schedules to have some winter fun, show off creativity, teamwork, and raise climate action awareness in the Snow Me the Money! contest.